Here’s a bold statement: Arike Ogunbowale isn’t just dominating on the basketball court—she’s changing the game off it, too. The four-time WNBA All-Star recently joined forces with El Pollo Loco to ‘Bring the Fire’ to five deserving schools, donating $2,000 worth of equipment to each. Why? Because she believes in creating the best possible environment for young athletes to thrive. But here’s where it gets controversial: Is it enough for professional athletes to simply donate money, or should they be more hands-on in mentoring the next generation? Let’s dive in.
Arike’s philosophy is simple: pay it forward. Growing up, she benefited from fundraisers and community support that allowed her to enjoy sports and other activities. Now, she’s returning the favor. ‘We had so many people giving back to us,’ she tells Elite Daily. ‘It’s important to do the same when you can.’ Her partnership with El Pollo Loco is just one way she’s giving back, though let’s be honest—their fire-grilled chicken doesn’t hurt either. Her go-to order? A protein-packed meal with chicken, grains, lettuce, and a dash of salsa. ‘It’s filling and healthy,’ she says. And this is the part most people miss: Even a pro athlete like Arike doesn’t always feel hungry right after a game. ‘The adrenaline takes a while to wear off,’ she explains.
Once she’s home, though, the cravings kick in. Below, Arike shares her postgame routine, recovery tips, and the TV shows she binge-watches to unwind. Spoiler alert: she’s a reality TV fan, admitting, ‘I like a little drama for the night because my life is peaceful.’
Postgame Rituals: After a game, Arike prioritizes recovery. Ice baths, massages, and Normatec boots are her go-to tools. But here’s the twist: her routine has evolved since her college days at the University of Notre Dame. ‘Back then, you’re always ready to go, go, go,’ she says. Now, she focuses on sleep and elevating her legs to prepare for the next challenge. Thought-provoking question: With the WNBA schedule so demanding, how do athletes balance recovery and performance without burning out?
Family and Recovery: Arike’s brother, Dare Ogunbowale, an NFL player, is her go-to source for recovery tips. From pre-workouts to postgame rituals, they share insights that keep both of them at the top of their game. Controversial interpretation: Could sibling rivalry in sports actually be a secret weapon for success?
Celebrations and Setbacks: Arike admits it’s hard to celebrate every win in the WNBA. ‘There’s always another game in 48 hours,’ she says. But when she does unwind, it’s with her fiancée, brother, and parents. Final question for you: How do you think athletes should handle losses? Should they dwell on them or immediately shift focus to the next game? Share your thoughts in the comments—let’s spark a conversation!
